The Bachelor of Creative Arts (Drama) is a three-year undergraduate degree designed for students who are passionate about performance, theatre-making, and the creative arts. The course combines hands-on practice with theoretical study, immersing students in acting, directing, devised theatre, scriptwriting, dramaturgy, stage management, set design, and critical analysis of dramatic texts and performance history. Students engage with both classical traditions and contemporary performance practices, developing the creative, intellectual, and collaborative skills needed for a career in Australia's vibrant performing arts and creative industries sector.

This degree is designed for aspiring performers, directors, playwrights, theatre educators, arts administrators, producers, and cultural workers. Graduates are equipped not only with deep artistic craft but also with the entrepreneurial, research, and leadership skills required to sustain a multifaceted creative career. The course typically blends studio-based workshops, lectures, ensemble projects, and public performance seasons, giving students real-world experience before they graduate.

Employers of drama graduates span a wide range of sectors: independent and commercial theatre companies, state-funded arts organisations, schools and TAFE colleges, film and television production companies, community arts organisations, arts festivals and events, digital content and media companies, and corporate training providers. Graduates often pursue portfolio careers — combining performance work with roles in arts administration, education, community engagement, and creative production — making this degree a springboard into Australia's dynamic and growing creative economy.

Entry requirements for the Bachelor of Creative Arts (Drama) vary between institutions, but most require completion of Australian Year 12 (or equivalent) with a competitive ATAR. ATAR thresholds for drama-focused degrees generally range from approximately 60 to 80, though some highly selective acting conservatoire programmes have higher benchmarks. Importantly, most providers also require applicants to complete a supplementary application process that includes an audition — either in person or via video submission — and may also require a personal statement, a current CV or resume, and in some cases a portfolio of creative work. The audition typically involves prepared monologue pieces (classical and/or contemporary), improvisation exercises, and an interview with faculty.

For international applicants and mature-age students, English language proficiency requirements typically apply. Accepted tests include IELTS (usually a minimum overall score of 6.0–6.5 with no band below 6.0), TOEFL, or PTE Academic, depending on the institution. Mature-age applicants who do not hold an ATAR may be considered based on relevant work experience in the performing arts, prior VET qualifications, or completion of an access/enabling programme. Some providers offer experience-based entry pathways for applicants with demonstrated professional performance experience.

Prospective students should be aware that entry into drama programmes is highly competitive and is assessed holistically rather than purely on academic merit. Demonstrating genuine passion, practical experience (such as school productions, community theatre, or drama workshops), and creative potential at audition is often more decisive than ATAR alone. Some institutions also offer elite performer entry schemes that allow applicants with exceptional artistic talent to be considered below the standard ATAR threshold.